My husband and I paid a visit to Mandarin Restaurant at 18420 Brookhurst St. (near Ellis Avenue in the Valley Gardens Center) for lunch.

This large modern space, which seats more than 200, was filled with customers. Up at the beautiful front counter, owner Henry Liu was busy saying goodbye to just-finished diners.

“The restaurant has been here for seven years,” he said. “We have many loyal customers, and the city of Fountain Valley has many friendly people.”

The jovial owner’s favorite foods to eat at his own restaurant are the Honey Glazed Walnut Shrimp and the Diced Chicken in Spicy Sauce.

I decided to try the Walnut Shrimp (Spicy Sauce doesn’t really agree with my sensitive stomach). It was delicious, with lots of shrimp with the flavorful taste of honey and nut. It is served with soup and rice for $8.25.

My husband opted for the Beef with Broccoli, a sizeable portion for $7.50. This spot is definitely worth the trip.

Next door to Mandarin Restaurant is Ballard & Ballard at 18400 Brookhurst St. The day I visited, one of the owners, Guy Ballard, was busy designing a one-of-a-kind yellow gold bangle. His brother Glenn is also on board at this fourth-generation jewelers.

Guy Ballard gave me the tour. This 2,000-square-foot space is filled with beautiful jewelry.

“We love to be able to offer pieces to our clients that they won’t find just anywhere,” he said.

Have an idea for a custom piece? Ballard and Ballard can create it for you. The store has state-of-the-art computer design capabilities, so your design will be exactly what you’re looking for and made right there.

Getting married? Ballard& Ballard is happy to help you select the right ring. The store is upscale, but with prices that can fit almost any budget. I plan to revisit around the holidays, and I’ve got have my eye on a gorgeous rose gold pendant.

Ballard & Ballard has been working with fine jewelry since 1917, and their jewelers, designers and goldsmiths will happily (and knowledgeably) help you find exactly what you want.

My final stop at the Valley Gardens Center was to The Alcove Hair Studio at 18438 Brookhurst St.

Talk about a fun and lively place! I was warmly greeted by Kerry Thomas, who, along with the rest of the staff here, absolutely love what they do. Owner Cindy Muehlhaus has created a warm and welcoming space.

The Alcove Hair Studio opened in 1981 and provides hair, nail and makeup services.

“I’ve had a lot of the same clients for many, many, many years,” Thomas said. “We have locals that started with us, and now their children are coming.”